Severe storms tore across eastern Wagoner County on Thursday evening, ripping Whitehorn Cove Marina loose from the shoreline and tossing boaters into rough water. Sections of floating docks and parts of the facility were yanked away by sudden, powerful winds, trapping people on detached walkways and boats. Authorities say all 17 people at the marina were rescued and brought back to shore.
How crews pulled people to safety
According to News On 6, Wagoner County Emergency Management and the Whitehorn Cove Fire Department led the response and sent swift-water rescue teams to the scene. The county received a 911 call reporting that the marina had broken away from shore, and crews worked to bring all 17 people safely back to land. Emergency workers also coordinated with nearby agencies to stage boats and rescue equipment around the area.
Where it happened
Whitehorn Cove Marina sits on Fort Gibson Lake in eastern Wagoner County, a popular recreation area for boaters and anglers, according to Wikipedia. The marina includes slips, ramps, and a lakeside restaurant that draws weekend crowds, and its floating setup can be vulnerable to sudden, high winds sweeping across the reservoir. Local boaters regularly use the lake for fishing and overnight stays, which meant plenty of people were nearby when the storm rolled in.
Damage and hazards
News On 6 reported that straight-line winds pulled sections of floating docks and walkways away from the shoreline and blew out windows at the marina's restaurant. Emergency officials said multiple power lines were down and debris partially blocked the roadway leading to the marina, complicating access for first responders. The Grand River Dam Authority and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol were notified as crews worked to secure the site and stabilize what was left of the marina.
Safety and next steps
Wagoner County Emergency Management reminds residents that if they are in immediate danger they should call 911 and that storm or flood damage should be reported so the county can coordinate response and recovery, per Wagoner County Emergency Management. The county also advises people to stay clear of downed power lines and unstable docks until utilities and marine crews declare those areas safe. Officials have not yet released a timeline for repairs or for reopening the marina.
Cleanup and structural assessments are expected as crews secure the docks and clear the access road. More updates will follow as officials release additional information.
